40 Days Through Daniel by Ron Rhodes

Author:Ron Rhodes
Language: eng
Format: epub
ISBN: 9780736964463
Publisher: Harvest House Publishers

DAY 21

Daniel Is Thrown into the Lions’ Den

Daniel 6:10-17

Scripture Reading and Insights

Begin by reading Daniel 6:10-17 in your favorite Bible. As you read, remember that those who obey the Word of God are truly blessed (Psalm 119:2; Luke 11:28; Revelation 1:3).

In the previous lesson, a devious plot was launched against Daniel by some unscrupulous government officials. In today’s lesson, we see the result of that plot—Daniel is thrown into the lions’ den. With your Bible still accessible, consider the following insights on the biblical text, verse by verse.

Daniel 6:10-11

When Daniel knew (6:10): The injunction signed by the king became public knowledge. As soon as Daniel became aware of it, he did what he normally did when facing a crisis: He prayed to God. He knew that God is always the believer’s first line of defense.

Toward Jerusalem (6:10): The windows in Daniel’s upper chamber faced Jerusalem. The temple in Jerusalem was considered God’s dwelling place. Exiled Jews often prayed toward Jerusalem. (See Major Themes.)

On his knees three times a day (6:10): Jewish people commonly prayed three times a day (see Psalm 55:16-17). Daniel consistently followed this tradition. Despite the threat of death in a lions’ den, Daniel would not cease praying to the one true God. Notice that Daniel’s intention was not to disobey the king but rather to obey the King of kings—the one true God. Daniel was obeying a higher authority (compare with Acts 5:29).

Gave thanks (6:10): Instead of complaining about the bad circumstances he now faced—circumstances that could lead to his death—Daniel began his prayer with thanksgiving. We are reminded of Psalm 95:2: “Let us come into his presence with thanksgiving.” Psalm 100:4 also comes to mind: “Enter his gates with thanksgiving.” Despite the present crisis, Daniel was thankful for God’s continued goodness to him.

These men came by agreement (6:11): The conspiracy against Daniel continued to unfold. The group collectively sought to catch Daniel violating the king’s injunction. One is reminded of Psalm 37:32-33: “The wicked watches for the righteous and seeks to put him to death. The LORD will not abandon him to his power or let him be condemned when he is brought to trial.”

Found Daniel making petition and plea (6:11): Though Daniel began his prayer with thanksgiving, he also made “petition and plea” to God for help and guidance in the present situation. The conspirators now had the evidence they needed against Daniel to ensure his destiny in the lions’ den.

Daniel 6:12-13

Did you not sign an injunction (6:12): Like adolescent tattletales, the conspirators rushed to the king and said, “O king! Did you not sign an injunction, that anyone who makes petition to any god or man within thirty days except to you, O king, shall be cast into the den of lions?” Because King Darius’s injunction was according to the custom of the Medes and Persians, it was irrevocable, and the king could not negotiate on Daniel’s behalf.

Daniel…pays no attention to you…or the injunction…but makes his petition (6:13): The conspirators’ spin on the situation made Daniel look bad.

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